This month, I’m borrowing a page from the playbook of two colleagues I admire — Jordan Norby and Noreen Rueckert — who both have published self-interviews for their monthly columns. I thought it was a fun, honest way to share their perspectives, and I decided it was time to do the same.
June marked my third anniversary as Executive Director of Green County Development Corporation (GCDC). These past three years have flown by, but they’ve also been some of the most fulfilling and fast-paced of my career. So, in that spirit, I figured I’d take a moment to reflect and share more about myself and the work we do at GCDC.
Q: How did you get started in community and economic development?
A: I’m originally from Nebraska and have always had a deep appreciation for small towns and the people who make them tick. Like a lot of people in this field, I didn’t plan to end up in economic development — it sort of found me.
In college, I did an internship that placed students in small towns across Nebraska. I was assigned to Ravenna and thought I’d be helping with public health, since that was my major at the time. But when I got there, they needed help with economic development instead. I jumped in, and from day one, I was hooked. I remember being inspired by the local leaders who were so dedicated to their community — I wanted to be like them.
After graduating from the University of Nebraska, I took a job as an economic development consultant for the state. I learned a lot, but I quickly realized I wanted to be at the local level, working directly with people and seeing the impact up close. That’s when I knew this was the right path for me — supporting entrepreneurs, helping communities grow, and improving quality of life.
When I took the job with GCDC, I didn’t know a single person here. It was a big jump, but I’m so grateful for the chance the board took on me. From day one, folks here were welcoming and genuine — it’s made all the difference.
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: That’s a tough question because there’s a lot I enjoy. But if I had to pick, I’d say two things stand out.
First, I love seeing the real impact our programs and initiatives have in the community. It’s incredibly fulfilling to watch a project move forward — whether it’s a new business opening, a housing project breaking ground, or a local entrepreneur getting support — and know that we played a role in helping make it happen.
Second, I truly enjoy the people I get to work with. I’ve had the chance to learn from so many incredible leaders — business owners, educators, elected officials, and everyday residents — who care deeply about the future of this place. Economic development naturally puts you in rooms with people who dream big and are willing to try new things, and that’s one of the best parts of the job.
Q: What’s something you’re proud of from the last three years?
A: There are a few things I could list — grants awarded, partnerships formed, new programs launched — but honestly, I’m most proud of the relationships and partnerships we have made. When I stepped into this role, I knew that if we were going to make an impact, we needed to prioritize relationships. Over the past three years, we’ve worked hard to make economic development feel as accessible as possible. I want people to see GCDC as a true partner. The fact that people feel comfortable picking up the phone, sharing ideas, and working with us means a lot.
Q: Tell us a little about yourself outside of work.
A: Outside of work, I try to stay active and spend as much time outdoors as possible. I enjoy hiking, cycling, running, paddleboarding — and lately, I’ve even been learning to golf. I also love to read and travel whenever I get the chance.
In May, I hiked rim-to-rim across the Grand Canyon, which was an unforgettable experience. I’m already thinking about what big hike to take on next, so if anyone has any recommendations, let me know! Beyond all that, I really value time with my family and friends — especially my siblings, my niece, and my four nephews.
Q: Any final thoughts as you hit this three-year milestone? What’s next for GCDC?
A: I’m just incredibly grateful. This job is a privilege, and I don’t take it for granted. Every day, I get to work alongside people who genuinely care about their neighbors and their communities — and that’s something worth investing in.
Looking ahead, GCDC is continuing to focus on workforce housing, youth entrepreneurship, and business retention. We’re also looking at launching new efforts around community vitality — supporting projects that help shape the future of our towns. Whether it’s through funding, making the right connections, or just helping someone think through an idea, our goal is to keep showing up and doing the work that helps our communities grow stronger.
— Olivia Otte is the Executive Director of Green County Development Corporation. To learn more about GCDC’s work, visit www.greencountydevelopment.com or contact the office at (608) 328-9452 or gcdc@greencountydevelopment.com.
